Chicago vs Phoenix
Cost of living and salary reality, side by side. At $60-80k, $70,000 in Chicago feels like approximately $67,981 in Phoenix.
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFYour $60-80k in Chicago feels like $67,981 in Phoenix. Moving would decrease your purchasing power by 3%.
Chicago
Phoenix
Your details stay on your device. Sharing generates an image only.
Curious what a raise — or a different path — would change?
At $60-80k in Chicago, your picture shifts from comfortable toward comfortable.
No city is objectively better. Chicago and Phoenix each fit different priorities — the right one depends on what you're building toward.
Related comparisons
Chicago vs Phoenix — FAQ
Is it cheaper to live in Chicago or Phoenix?
HUD FY2026 1BR Fair Market Rent is $1,581/mo in Chicago and $1,583/mo in Phoenix. Chicago has lower median housing costs. Source: HUD FY2026 FMR.
How much do I need to earn in Phoenix to match Chicago?
At a $60-80k income, $70,000 in Chicago feels like approximately $67,981 in Phoenix — a reduction of about 3% in purchasing power.
What is the state tax difference between Chicago and Phoenix?
Chicago is in IL (IL levies income tax) and Phoenix is in AZ (AZ levies income tax). Source: Tax Foundation 2025.
Which city has more breathing room?
Breathing room depends on your income and housing situation. Use the interactive comparison above to see how each city's picture changes across income bands.